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8. Chris Marrero, Nationals: After five-plus seasons in the Minors, Marrero finally made his way to the big leagues, playing first for the Nats for much of the final month of the season. He's always had a decent bat with good power, though it hasn't always shown up consistently in games. Marrero has worked hard to become an adequate first baseman, and he might have received an opportunity to play there in Washington in 2012 if it weren't for a torn hamstring he suffered in winter ball. When Marrero gets back, he'll probably have to head to Triple-A and wait for an opportunity.

In the least surprising news of the day, Bryce is the top ranked prospect OF.

1. Bryce Harper, Nationals: Harper might play all of the 2012 season at age 19, but it would be a mistake to think that's a reason he won't be in Washington this year. All signs point to him getting every chance to make the Opening Day roster, and why not? Harper has already shown an ability to make adjustments. He started out slowly after his double-jump to Double-A last summer, but was just heating up when he got shut down by a minor hamstring injury. No matter, Harper simply went to the Arizona Fall League and raked there. His plus power shows up in games consistently, and he didn't strike out quite as much as some thought he would. Harper gets on base, is an aggressive baserunner and is improving in the outfield, where his plus arm works very well. He could be ready to take the nation's capital by storm on Opening Day.

Talk has always been Espinosa goes to his natural SS position. If Rendon pans out, then I think it'll come down to who the organization likes better. The better player between Ian and Danny stays, the other gets traded.

Wanted to bring up Danny Rosenbaum. To me he's a guy to continue keeping an eye on. Not on the top prospects list but he continues to impress. Reminds me of Tom Milone (flying under the radar but efficient).

Danny is pitching for Harrisburg today and the last time he allowed an ER was on April 13 (unless I jinxed him just now). Plus if you look at his numbers every year they are consistent. And that is really key to making it to the big leagues.